July pilgrims, so far

[Rosina Lila]

Hello you all,
The Archdiocese's pilgrims' office has been awarding an average of 500
Compostelas daily during this month, which is a number far greater than expected for
a non Holy year.
According to those in the office, pilgrims begin arriving at 9:00 a.m., and
the lines are quite long between 10 o'clock and noon.  They add that Obradeiro
is awash with pilgrims singing, hugging, resting or otherwise  demonstrating
their emotions at finding themselves at the Camino's end.
The albergues seem to be feeling the crunch as well. Last Wednesday  more
than one hundred pilgrims were waiting at the Melide albergue before it opened.
The albergue's 130 beds did not suffice for the 189 pilgrims that requested a
place, and the albergue had to place sleeping mats in the dining room and the
hallways.
The 200 beds available at the Palas de Rei albergue were quickly taken over
and as many pilgrims more were bedded down, and given food, etc., at the sports
arena.  The Palas de Rei "hospitalera" says that July is the most
pilgrim-crowded month, but adds that the albergue and ancillary sports arena are ready to
accommodate one and all pilgrims.
.....Gosh! .... don't you wish you were there right now?  I sure do.
Warm regards,
Rosina










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